Gifts are a very special part of Christmas for many people – both giving and receiving them. But how many of us recognize the most special Christmas gift of all: Jesus. How many of us have truly received this gift and given him an important place in our life? “To all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God” (John 1,12).

Have you noticed that in some crèches, the infant Jesus has his arms stretched out toward us? It’s as if he is saying “pick me up . . . hold me . . . let me put my arms around you . . . receive me.” Think of how much joy we experience in holding a baby or a small child. How much more joy and love is to be found when we receive Jesus. He is the gift given to each of us.

The early church fathers (teachers) loved to quote “he (Jesus) became what we are that we might become what he is.” What he is . . . the one in whom God dwells . . . the image of God . . . the one who is the refulgence of God’s glory. Both Jesus’ teaching and his whole manner of life show us what—or rather who--we are to become. Jesus’ power at work in us, his grace—if we receive it--empowers us to become that. This Christmas, reflect on this greatest gift of all—and receive him.